CELEBRATING WOMEN IN DENTISTRY DURING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
At NADG, we stand united in celebration of our differences and respecting what makes each of us unique. We are proud of the women within our organization who are making a difference in dentistry, championing servant leadership and exemplifying best-in-class patient care. Meet Ashton Miller, Charo Earle, Danielle Short, Yanique Griffin, and Kelly Louthain.
WHO INSPIRES YOU?
Ashton:
The most inspiring person that I have ever met was my mother. She was the epitome of grace and kindness. Having grown up poor, despite her own personal successes, she understood the struggles that people face. When we were very young, she counselled us to look beyond the surface of what people show you and reach out with a helping hand or word when needed.
Kelly:
Although I lost my mom to cancer six years ago, she continues to lead me through life and is my inspiration. She was a servant leader–professionally and personally. She worked full-time but still made time for me and my siblings and was there for so many other kids that needed support.
Charo:
I’m inspired by my Mom who has continuously been one of my biggest supporters. She taught me to be a leader, to give back, help others, and get along with everyone no matter your differences. She raised me to be independent and to reach for the stars. She did not accomplish all that she wanted to in life, so she pushed me HARD to reach mine. I may not have appreciated then, but I sure do now.
Yanique:
My mother inspires me. She has been my rock for me and my family. I was a single mother for many years and my mother stepped in and was a major support to me and my girls. She’s supportive and has always encouraged me to never settle and to work harder than expected to reach my goals. I love and appreciate her so much.
WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST ACCOMPLISHMENT, PROFESSIONAL OR PERSONAL?
Ashton:
My biggest accomplishment is the work that I have done within the four walls of my home. I have three children – and as a proud mother, two of them are ranked in the top two percent of the state for academia. Plus, they love contributing to team sports and have pure hearts.
Kelly:
Professionally, my biggest accomplishment is being asked to sit on the Professional Dental Alliance’s Oral Health Board as its’ chair of the hygiene committee. I’m honored to be on a board consisting of respected dentists and continue to grow in my career. In my personal life, I feel blessed to be a mom. I am proud of my two-year old daughter and excited to see what the future holds for her. Biggest accomplishment–by far.
Charo:
I’m proud to say that I have gone further in my education and career than my parents were able to. Every parent wants more for their children and knowing that I made my parents proud by achieving this goal is a great feeling. It inspires me to mentor and encourage others to have faith and confidence to reach their goals and dreams – and that is very fulfilling to me.
Danielle:
Raising my daughter on my own since she was 6-weeks old. Now, she is an amazing 16-year old doing great things and I am so proud of her.
Yanique:
Personally, my children! I never thought that I would be a mother and my two miracles have defied those odds. They give me warmth and strength and it’s an honor to be their mom.
WHEN DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU WANTED TO PURSUE A CAREER IN DENTISTRY?
Ashton:
I used to stare at my first-grade teachers’ teeth! I was always wondering why she had the worst breath! That fascination with her teeth inspired me to pursue the dental field.
Kelly:
I grew up in a very small town with very little to do or places to go. To go to the dentist, we had to take a road trip. I loved being able to get out of school, hangout with my dentist, and eat fast food (since we didn’t have fast food, that was a treat!). It was great! I loved the experience so much that while I was in high school, I asked if I could shadow them. It was during that time when I decided that I wanted to be the reason kids loved getting out of school…to see the dentist! (I know..weird, right?)
Charo:
Growing up, I was in awe visiting my dentist, Dr. Roxanne Baker. She had such grace, strength, and confidence and her nurturing way made me feel very comfortable during what could have easily been a scary moment in a child’s impressionable mind. She had a huge impact on my choice to pursue dentistry. We formed a long-lasting connection and continue to stay in touch.
Danielle:
The hygienists in my local dental office made the job look fun and interesting, so I went back to school again and did it! 🙂
Yanique:
I was 15-years old when I relocated to the United States from Jamaica. I was enrolled in Mount Vernon High School and was given the option between various technical programs and chose “Dental Assisting.” I fell in love with dentistry from that point on. I later decided to pursue a degree in dental hygiene and excelled there as well, despite several hurdles and setbacks.
Amazing women with amazing stories.